CRITICAL APPRAISAL

Critical appraisal of a building of architectural importance in the

city/district

Vyshagh T A
2018BARC067
TAJ Hotel, Mumbai

The Taj Hotel Mumbai is a historic luxury hotel located in Mumbai, India.

Location:

The location of the Taj Hotel Mumbai is considered to be one of the most prime and
sought-after locations in the city. The hotel is situated in the upscale Colaba
neighborhood, which is home to many of Mumbai's top tourist attractions, such as
the Gateway of India, the National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Prince of Wales
Museum.
The hotel's location also provides easy access to other parts of the city. The
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is located about 25 km from the hotel, while
the Mumbai Central Railway Station is about 8 km away. The hotel is also
well-connected to the city's public transport system, including buses, taxis, and the
local train network.

Overall, the location of the Taj Hotel Mumbai is ideal for tourists and travelers who
wish to explore the city's cultural and historical landmarks. The hotel's proximity to
the seafront and other attractions, as well as its easy access to public transport,
make it a convenient and desirable location for visitors to Mumbai.

Design:

The Taj Hotel Mumbai's design is a fusion of Indian and European architectural
styles, creating a distinct blend of cultures. The building's grand facade features a
blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements, while the interiors are
decorated with intricate Indian motifs and traditional artwork. The hotel's distinctive
dome-shaped entrance and grand staircase further add to its opulent design.

Functionality:

The Taj Hotel Mumbai is a functional and efficient building that caters to the needs
of its guests. The building is designed to provide a luxurious experience to its guests
while ensuring their comfort and safety. The hotel's spacious rooms, grand
ballrooms, and state-of-the-art facilities cater to a range of events and functions.

Materials:

The Taj Hotel Mumbai is constructed using high-quality materials, including imported
Italian marble, crystal chandeliers, and handcrafted furnishings. The building's
exterior features intricately carved sandstone and limestone, adding to its grandeur
and elegance.
Sustainability:

The Taj Hotel Mumbai's sustainability practices are not well-documented. However,
the hotel has made efforts to reduce its carbon footprint by implementing
energy-saving measures and using eco-friendly materials where possible.

History:

The Taj Hotel Mumbai has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1903. The hotel
was designed by architect W.A. Chambers and built by the Tata Group, one of India's
largest conglomerates. Over the years, the Taj Hotel Mumbai has hosted many
notable guests, including heads of state, celebrities, and business leaders.

Current state:

The Taj Hotel Mumbai is still a luxury hotel that provides world-class service to its
guests. Following the 2008 terrorist attack, the hotel underwent a massive
renovation and reopened in 2010. The hotel now boasts modern amenities and
state-of-the-art security measures.

Impact on the local community:

The Taj Hotel Mumbai has had a significant impact on the local community, both
before and after the 2008 attacks. The hotel is a major employer in Mumbai,
providing jobs and economic opportunities for many people. Additionally, the Taj
Hotel Mumbai has been involved in many charitable and social initiatives, including
providing aid to disaster-stricken areas and supporting local cultural events.

However, the 2008 attacks had a profound impact on the local community and the
country as a whole. The attacks resulted in the loss of many lives and caused
widespread fear and chaos. The Taj Hotel Mumbai, being a prominent target,
suffered significant damage and destruction, which has left a lasting impact on the
community.

Overall, the Taj Hotel Mumbai is a significant landmark in the history and culture of
Mumbai. While the 2008 attacks were a tragic event, the hotel has shown resilience
and determination in rebuilding and continuing to provide a luxurious experience to
its guests. The hotel's impact on the local community is undeniable, and its efforts to
support social and charitable causes are commendable.

INTERPRETATION

The Taj Hotel Mumbai's impact on the architectural landscape of Mumbai and India
as a whole is undeniable. The building's distinctive design and grandeur have made it
an iconic symbol of the city's heritage and culture. The Taj Hotel Mumbai has
inspired many other buildings and landmarks in India and continues to attract
tourists from around the world.

In conclusion, the Taj Hotel Mumbai is a stunning architectural masterpiece that has
stood the test of time. Its distinctive design, use of high-quality materials, and
functional layout are a testament to the building's grandeur and elegance. The Taj
Hotel Mumbai has made a significant impact on the architectural landscape of
Mumbai and India and continues to be a source of inspiration for many architects
and designers.